Dispatch reporters and editors answer readers’ questions about Ohio State athletics at BuckeyeXtra.com:

Question: How does the walk-on process work at a top-tier football program like Ohio State? Does it begin with the student-athlete’s decision or the coaching staff’s recruiting targets? — Shawna Mehta, Chicago

Answer: It’s a combination, but it almost always starts with an invitation. Through the course of recruiting, coaches run into players who may not be good enough to merit a scholarship offer but still could contribute. If such a player accepts the invitation, he becomes what’s known as a preferred walk-on. Then there is an open tryout, usually in the winter, when other aspirants can make their bid. — Tim May

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Q: If more than two teams have undefeated seasons, the ones that don’t play in the national championship game will cry foul. But honestly, when realistically comparing the Buckeyes to Alabama and Florida State, don’t they finish a distant third? In other words, the system likely will work this year, won’t it? — Jason Williams, Columbus

A: If Alabama and Florida State win out, the system is off the hook. Some Ohio State fans may grumble that FSU never should have jumped the Buckeyes (ranked No. 2 in preseason) in the first place, but otherwise few will complain on a national level. But the system becomes faulty if the Crimson Tide or Seminoles lose a game, in which case either Ohio State or Baylor would move to No. 2 if both win out. But which one? Both schools can make a strong case. Only one of them would get the chance, unless both Alabama and Florida State lose. — Rob Oller

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Q: Has Braxton Miller given any indication that he will return next season? — Eric Campbell, Columbus

A: Miller was asked about that issue three times this week, and he laughed it off each time, saying he hadn’t thought about it. Miller has made dramatic strides as a passer but is by no means a finished product. It will be a crowded quarterback class in next year’s draft, but he does have a young son, so family considerations will matter. It may come down to whether he thinks it’s wiser to stay and improve his draft stock. — Bill Rabinowitz